We attended the Wingspan and Wine event and it was a lovely evening in every way. Before entering the building, we were greeted with a bald eagle, his handler and another staff member introducing us with an abundance of interesting facts about the eagle. All of the staff was friendly, knowledgeable and clearly have a passion and love for their roles at the nature center. The Wingspan and Wine event had a variety of wines to try, along with charcuteries, veggies, fruit and some desserts to munch on throughout the evening. The stars of the evening were the many different raptors we got to see up close and hear all about, all of which are clearly cared for and loved by all of the staff. The property itself is gorgeous and spacious. Visiting the Schlitz Audubon Center has been on my list for years and I'm so glad I was finally able to visit - now I can't wait to go back for more exploring and to see more of what they have to offer! read more

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Had an incredible evening last week at the raptors and wine event. Walking around, sampling wines while learning about some of my favorite raptors from the passionate staff made for an enjoyable evening. The space is has the vibe of a rustic lodge and would be great for weddings or larger parties. I'll be back to take advantage of the 6+ miles of outdoor trails. I'll be on the lookout for more events like this in the future. read more

The Schlitz Audubon is beyond impressive. It's in the north shore and so tucked away that I feel like it's unassuming, but boy is it lovely! We live in the area but regretfully don't visit enough. Recently though, my son and I went for a morning to explore my nephew's school there. He's apart of their "Nature School" program for young kiddos (essentially a pre-kindergarten class). The coolest part? Most all of the classrooms are outdoors! The trails are stunning, winding through well-kept nature preserves, into the woods, past small ponds, and over little bridges. It really is a beautiful and calming place to be. You'll discover all kinds of ecosystems and wildlife along the way. The main lodge is lovely as well. Vast in size, make to a modern day log cabin. It's very clean and welcoming, offering mini museum-like exhibits of animals, a coffee/tea section, and even a gift shop. The staff are sweet and helpful, offering maps and guidance about the property. Highly recommend a visit to this nature center! Whether it's a planned group visit, attending their planned events and camps, or just a simple excursion on your own, it's a wonderful place to explore. read more

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nice place to go hiking. There's a trail to the beach so have your flip flops handy. Fun to dip your toes in. read more

See all

I've been to the Hoot-enanny twice, and it is so fun! The staff is so knowledgeable when they bring out the owls, the music is very fun, the gift shop isn't cheap crap...what a fun event at a great place! read more

See all

Crikey! This place has everything! Plenty of absolute beauties to see. From the small songbirds such as Golden Crowned Kinglets, to the large raptors such as the classic Red-Tailed Hawks, and everything in-between. With a few amazing hiking trails to explore and very passionate and knowledgeable people to show you things that you might not have noticed or had the privilege of seeing up close, this place has something for everyone! read more

See all

I absolutely love the Schlitz Audubon. I went there for Teacher Fest just recently and it was the greatest experience. I loved seeing all the different displays, birds, reptiles and their shops have such cute items. read more

See all

Had the pleasure of being part of a wedding out here at SANC. Facilities were top notch. Personnel were super friendly. It was an added bonus that they had 4 raptors out during cocktail hour and we got to explore around. Really solid place. read more

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center - Valkyrie the Bald Eagle - Parks Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

We started coming for Audubon baby events, and now attend Audubon toddler classes. The property is beautiful and serene. We are members and hope to use the Nature School soon. We love the outdoor classrooms, alphabet trail, boardwalks near the ponds, and the live animal exhibits in the nature building. Staff are friendly and helpful. This is such a local treasure. read more

I've heard of this place many times but have never visited until now. We were here for a birthday party recently, and wow! We have to come back! What an incredible place! The main building houses some live animal exhibits as well as touch-friendly educational exhibits, a gift shop, an art gallery and an early childhood nature school program, and that was just the areas I was able to see. The building is HUGE! They offer different trails, that all looked very well maintained, through all kinds of terrains from mashes, woods, lake-front, a lagoon, even. Some parts are wheelchair/stroller accessible, too. There's a huge observation tower that can be climbed for the views and a deck with rocking chairs somewhere in the trails. Which brings me to the reason I really need to come back: I need to hike the trails!! The birthday party we attended was kicked off with a meet & greet with 4 of Nature Center's feathered residents that we got to learn so much about. The staff member and volunteers who did the presentation were friendly, polite, patient and very professional. They handled the birds with the utmost care and respect for them, and were open to answering questions from both the children and adults in attendance. Overall, my first experience at Schlitz Audubon was nothing short of spectacular. Highly recommended read more

See all

We enjoyed a self guided maple sap tapping program in this beautiful nature preserve. With the sound of Lake Michigan as a background we learned from naturalists about all aspects of tapping trees for sap to make syrup. Each station was informative and fun. The tower is not to be missed but it is not for the faint of knees with lots of steps and height. Head into the center itself and see some live animals and more nature information. I will return to hike the trails but dogs are not allowed and that makes me sad. However if this rule keeps this nature preserve pristine I honor that. A small parking/entrance fee is worth the cost. read more

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center - A view from the top of the tower - Parks Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Beautiful walk after the freshLu fallen snow. Wonderful staff and walking trails. Several smaller loops to add to your walk.

Fun place! This is yet another spot that sat on my to-do list for a very long time until I was finally able to check it off a couple weeks ago. Early spring isn't the best time to visit here, but not the worst either. There are some seasonal differences of note: Cold weather visit - Absolutely no bugs! And you won't sweat like a pig while walking the parks vast expanse of trails (which we did). If you're a bird watcher it's a lot easier to spot birds in leafless tree's. We heard a good number of them but only managed to spot a few. You need binoc's to get the job done. There are likely far less people here in cooler/colder weather. Beach access may be chilly but it's still a nice walk and beautiful view. Warm weather visit - green is better than winter lifelessness! The park probably pops in the summer when all of the foliage is in full display. They also have a dragonfly area that goes dormant in colder weather. The ponds surely have a lot more life as well, frogs and fish become more evident. If you take the trail down to Lake Michigan you can take a dip or play in the water. Year-round - The path's themselves never change, nor does the beachfront access and views from the tower. Speaking of which, this is one of the best parts of the park, be sure to make your way to the top! We were able to spot several wildlife including deer, turkey and several birds. All in all we'd recommend a visit here. Carve out a few hours for some outdoors! Cheers. read more

See all

Walk the trails and explore different habitats. There are grasslands, wooded areas, access to Lake Michigan, turtle ponds that give wildlife a home. Nature center is also a nice facility read more

Such a beautiful sanctuary in the Suburbs. The annual family membership is very affordable and they have a constant flow of fun programs!

My kids went to the Nature Preschool for K3 and K5. It was the best gift A parent can give a kid. Great staff, teachers, volunteers and leadership. The park is a hidden gem with a vast variety of fauna. Meadows, fields, woods, ravine, ponds and naturally the lake front. It is a perfect place for kids and adults alike. read more

See all

Great for kids. This place is amazing. This place is very dear to me and we have been members for years. If you want to be outside or just like anything outdoors. Check it out! read more

SANC IS THE BEST!! SANC Haiku Sanity Awareness Nature Center to Center. Thank you. Family W read more

"Enter these enchanted woods, you who dare..." Ok, so the Schlitz Audubon Center, obvious prime location for many a preschool - elementary school class field trip is of course not as ominous as the above quote makes it sound. But there's always an element of the unknown at work when you leave the confining grid of your urban/suburban environment and enter a world where turkeys roam unfettered and red winged blackbirds raise an angry wing and have no problem chirping "you kids, get off my prairie." We took a guided tour via yelp/meet Milwaukee and explored part of the property (it's bigger than you might think!)Called Schlitz Audubon because (as I understand it) the land once housed the Schlitz horses, this is a large nature preserve along Milwaukees north shore. It bumps up against doctor's park to the south. I'd been here yeeeears ago (maybe late 90s?) but my only recollection is the tower. A 60 foot tower overlooks the woods and the lake. There's spectacular views and the only glimpse of civilization is the tops of the cellular towers way off capital drive. There's also a beach (sadly I didn't make it.. The pics look kind of cool). Moving on you'll find "Mystery lake" with its many frogs, snails, lily pads and school's of fish, birds of prey, a maple syrup harvesting area ("sugar shack" -- who knew maple syrup and pickles were a thing?). An outdoor Amphitheater can be used for birds of prey shows and weddings (not at the same time, I'm assuming.) The trails took us through forests and prairies and finally circled back to the main lodge. There's an adorable gift shop with cute toys and a larger room that can be rented for special events. Walking back towards the lodge thru an expansive prairie I had this strange déjà vu...may be to a dream I had....not real life. Its that sort of place. read more

See all

Well maintained trails. Good hike around the entire nature center. The main center was well designed and the small hands on displays was worth the participation. read more

We had a very nice time at the Nature Center a few days ago. Stopped during the middle of the week and it was perfect! Just before we wrapped up our visit a few buses arrived with little preschoolers. Was cute to see how excited they are over a few nature walks! We stopped at the tower which had beautiful views, walked along the beach after that, did a few miles on the trails before coming back to the visitors center. Inside they have informational stations and a help desk. Next to that is a sweet little gift shop. This can be a great afternoon stop with children or if you just wanted a break from society to take in some Mother Nature, it'll do! read more

See all

"One touch of nature makes the whole world kin." -William Shakespeare SANC is an absolute treasure hiding right on Lake Michigan just north of the City! 185 acres of forest, trails, beaches, sanctuaries... this truly is a natural center for the people, by the people. They boast preschool programs and camps for kids, but the Schlitz Audubon is also a great spot for adults, too. Hiking along trails, taking in the birds, trees, and nature... it's all so... blissful. Ahhhh. SANC has also got a killer tower you can climb - Lake Michigan and City views for days from that thing for sure. (I'm a little afraid of heights but it was totally worth it.) Oh! There's a raptor program, too - they house and care for many raptors/birds that cannot be re-released into the wild, so if you want to see some awesome, family-friendly shows swing by between 1-2pm on Saturdays. So glad to see this lovely swath of lakeshore land protected, cared-for and utilized by the people. If you haven't been, go! It's a great way to spend an afternoon. read more

See all

Always a good time and plenty to see. Very knowledgeable and helpful staff will make sure you get the most of your visit. New additions and a great hike. read more

Who knew you could enter the wilderness so close to Milwaukee!? I was craving some one-on-one time with Mother Nature herself one Saturday, so I made the drive up to this place. Cost $8 to come in. The center itself is gorgeous. Nice, nice facility. But the prizewinner is the grounds. Great hiking trails, beautiful walk on Lake Michigan, and tall watchtower to marvel at it all. I'll be back! read more

These guys have a fantastic facility, and are clearly experts at the high-class begging that characterizes American life anymore. But as an Audubon chapter that's hoovering up membership money from the larger part of the MKE metro area, while doing very little in the way of organized birding -- and virtually none on weekends when regular working-class folks can participate -- they are quite weak in my humble opinion. For MKE area bird-oriented people looking for an alternative to the wedding-centered Schlitz facility, maybe check out the Wisconsin Metro Audubon Society that seems to be focused around the Wehr Nature Center in Whitnall Park in Franklin. (But don't be distracted by the Milwaukee Audubon Society of Bayside, which is really just the Schlitz people under another name.) read more

Yesterday we spent 3 1/2 hours walking throughout this *wonderful* and huge (185-acre) nature conservancy. There are six miles of trails throughout wetlands & restored prairies, and a portion right along Lake Michigan. The Schlitz Brewery donated this former farmland to the Audubon Society and it's a real treasure. A Nature Center was built in 2003 and the employees were very friendly. A sweet thing was that a six-year-old boy was having a (co-ed) birthday party with a Nature Center guide and it was delightful seeing their joyful expressions about their visit. Also, a wedding was being set up inside the Nature Center when we were leaving and it's a really lovely setting. read more

There are a lot of nice hiking trails with opportunities to see wildlife. Take the climb up to the top of the tower to get a good view of the fall colors. Always always make the trek down to the beach along Lake Michigan. The fall festival last weekend offered a great opportunity to explore everything at the Audubon. There were a variety of food truck vendors as well as fall vegetables and my favorite Cedar House Rules handcrafted bird house and feeders as well as amazing photography greeting cards. There is a great preschool and many summer opportunities for kids to explore and learn about nature. We have had the opportunity to see some of the owls, vultures, and bald eagle during the Saturday afternoon raptor shows. Definitely take a look at the seasonal events for music nights (pat mccurdy has made an appearance). Or if you are looking for a great spot for photography this is it. Price is reasonable and if you live near by just get the annual pass. Truly a gem tucked away along Milwaukee's north shore. read more

See all

We had a companyChristmas party at Audubon also had the birds displayed. It was awesome and they were very easy to work with.

Located on Lake Michigan, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is a quiet respite on the north shore of Milwaukee County. You'll find lots of hiking trails, prairies, and dynamite views when visiting the park. I had the honor to do community service at the center and plant over 100 pine trees. The experience was incredible. Not to mention what seemed like a million tons of garlic mustard. The staff was committed to preserving the land and ensuring that what exists is better for future generations. Very impressive! I would volunteer again in a heart beat. The nature center itself is housed with a small gift center and a mini-sized interactive display for the kids. There is a fee to hike on the trails, but not a fair to visit the center itself. However, I would encourage anyone to pay the entrance fee and explore all that is offered. While there be sure to climb the observatory tower. It's simply breathtaking and a valuable resource in the area. read more

This is a gorgeous place to spend an afternoon. The trails are enough to keep your short attention span (in my case) stimulated. The center itself has so many scientific and animal related displays. I also love their gift shop, the kind of place that makes you feel like your hard-earned money is going toward something good. I frequent this spot often and still look forward to my next visit. read more

I came here for the first time recently on a day trip to Milwaukee from Chicago and was very impressed with this nature center. Although there are nature centers in Chicago also, you never really escape the feeling that you're in a city when you're there. Despite the fact that Schlitz is right in Milwaukee, however, it feels quite rural once you're on the grounds. We immediately headed for the trail that leads to the lake. After passing through some very pretty areas filled with wildflowers, we emerged right on the shore of Lake Michigan. I think the part of the beach that belongs to the nature center is only about 1/4 of a mile, but the beach extends way beyond that. We spent more than an hour just walking up and down here marveling at the beauty of the area and the fact that there were hardly any other people around. We even saw a wild turkey in the wooded area right beside the beach. The rest of the center is lovely as well. We hiked around the interior for quite a while and saw two more turkeys (plus baby turkeys!) and a young buck. There are numerous small ponds, wooded areas, and open prairie-like areas. We easily could have spent another hour or two here wandering around, but it closes at 5 and they do shut the gate to the parking area, so we had to rush to get out on time. I'd love to come back in the future, however. This place is a real hidden gem! read more

If you are looking for a beautiful place for a nature walk, or to see wildlife this is a really nice place to visit. An easy exit off of Brown Deer road east. The welcome center hosts a lot of interactive displays for small children and several animals in captivity to see up close. The gift shop is small, but the items they do carry are high quality And a great way to support the center. Our family enjoys the mystery pond the most here. A large pond with an easy path around its edges to see everything from basking turtles to water snakes. There is also several pier walk outs to get even closer. Being a protected nature center, the pond is pristine clear and you can see clear to the bottom around much of the pond. My 8 year old hates leaving this area when we visit and we end up doing 2 to 3 laps around to not miss anything. The woodland loop isn't horribly long for young children and features a large staircase and gorge. There is access to Lake Michigan with beach front, a look out tower, old farm Equipment left behind from years past and A grassland loop. This is a nature center worth supporting, with many educational programs and outreach to educate the public about our waterways and wildlife. The admission is reasonable and with as much as our family visits we chose the family Membership of $60 per year. This fee includes unlimited visits and free Snowshoe rental in winter. Yes! They have snow shoeing in winter:) read more

See all

This place is a fantastic resource to have right in the city. You can go down to the beach or hike the trails that take you west towards lake drive. There are little lakes, lots of trees, and I'm sure all these plants and things have names, but dammit, Jim, I'm a slacker not a botanist! Let's post some pics... read more

See all

I came here today for the Xtreme Raptor event. The grounds are beautiful-plenty of trees and trails. For the raptor event, the center had a lot going on from photo shoots with your fav raptor ($10-$15 extra dollars in addition to the $10 admission fee) to "free flight shows" where some of the birds of prey flew over your head. The staff were all welcoming, helpful and -knowledgeable regarding the specific event. My cousin also had her fall wedding here and the venue was lovely. Absolutely would return and love how they get the community involved with nature (they do have volunteer opportunities) as well as other educational and fun events throughout the year. read more

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center - Xtreme Raptor event 2016 - Parks Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

How have I not reviewed Schlitz Audubon Center? My husband and I try to get out here at least once per year (during spring migration because we are giant birdwatching nerds) but it's truly a great destination for any season. There's so much to love about this park/nature center: *Free, ample parking *A beautiful lodge/visitors center. It's great for events and they've got some nice displays to look at too. I really appreciate the board which tells you which birds have been spotted in the park recently. If you're just looking to relax, there are nice chairs out in some of the patio spaces too. *Just about every ecosystem is present - there are woods, wetlands, grasslands and of course, the lakeshore. That means you'll see a great diversity of wildlife. If you're a birdwatcher this should be at the top of your list! *Nicely maintained trails. You can choose easy loops through the grasslands or make a day of it and explore everything SAC has to offer. *Lots of wildlife - we always see deer and tons of birds. Be aware that the park is FULL of turkeys - we've been "surrounded" by big flocks on more than one occasion. *They've got lots of educational/outreach programs for the whole family. From summer camps for kids to guided snowshoe hikes for adults there's pretty much something for everyone. The cost per day is reasonable, and if you're a birdwatcher or amateur photographer the yearly membership really makes sense. The Schlitz Audubon is a hidden gem! read more

The Schlitz Nature Center is a great little getaway. If you don't have the inclination to make a big day trip to a proper park like Devil's Lake or Kettle Moraine, this is a wonderful option that's ten minutes from downtown. It is a sanctuary of about 200 untouched acres and half a mile of Lake Michigan shore. The area was originally a private getaway spot for brewery employees. Before that it was the stables and grounds for the draft horses that pulled the beer delivery wagons(!) The land was slated to become either a country club or hi-rise apartments. But due to some hard campaigning in the early 1960's, the land was preserved. When you drive in you first check-in at the gorgeous lodge and offices. Kids love this building for the play area. There are a few dioramas, but also a lot of animal costumes and backpacks for playtime while the adults bicker over which route to take. Outside there are a few short miles of easy trails. Also an observation tower, shoreline, and three picturesque ponds. You'll spot tons of frogs, deer, birds, and critters of all sorts in this pocket wilderness. Not much else to brag about, but what a great little hideaway right here in the city! They offer camps, classes, rentals, preschool, and lots more is scheduled on their calendar at http://www.sanc.org/calendar.htm . Membership is very reasonable and entitles you to free visits. If you're just here for the day, the low fee keeps the place open but means it's never swamped with tourists. Previous reviews here note that several paths cross over the paved driveway entrance. True, but this hardly makes it "automobile-centric". When your frantic weekend gets to be too much, this nature center is just around the corner for a quick escape! read more

This Nature Center has awesome hiking trails, many of which are being widened to accommodate wheelchairs/ walkers. I signed up for a free hike through my Yelp app, and almost didn't come so I could make it to happy hours with my friends. Needless to say I was not disappointed with my decision. The view of the lake from the tower and the beach were better release therapy than than that glass ( or 2) of wine would have been. Also, our wonderful tour guides were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about everything. Always great to see someone who loves their job! read more

See all

For the last five years we've found many easy ways to enjoy the Audubon. Trails, wildlife and the lake have provided a nearby escape. Even during the pandemic this is a great place to take our kids. The walks are a nice mix, many are easy strolls and stroller friendly. All of our kids attended the nature preschool and summer camps. The administration and teachers are amazing. Patient, compassionate and empowering. Our kids learned to be independent and inquisitive. read more

A great stay-cation spot!! Just a short drive from anywhere in Milwaukee. A beautiful spot to wander the forests, the prairies, the ravines, the wetlands, and even the shores of Wisconsin, all in just a few hours. We love coming here a few times a year to check out the migratory birds and just to stroll around with our binoculars around our necks and our heads tilted back focusing on little fluttering warblers precariously perched high in the treetops, usually just out of sight. Damn birds!! Bird watching can be just a frustrating a fishing. They don't want to be seen any more than fish want to be caught!! But I digress... We've seen some awesome stuff over the years: Countless unidentifyable Warblers, Bluebirds, Woodpeckers of every size and shape (except Piliated), flocks of Turkeys (not to be confused with the 80's band Flock of Seagulls), deer, frogs, and even snakes!! There are trails of every type and size here and they are very well maintained. You can even climb the 60' observatory for the best view on the north shore! Hats off to the Eilhein family who decided to create this nature center instead of millon dollar homesites back in the 1960's when they had a chance. Milwaukee is indebted to you for this! read more

I love this place!!!! Hiked with 2 girls, ages 7 and 4. Lots to do from the visitor center to all the different trails. Upon entering we saw a red tail hawk. The registration center has live animals to see. We learned about owls that day. The observation deck was easy for my kids to climb, beautiful views of Lake Michigan and grounds. We saw Mystery Pond with lots of tadpoles and turtles. An amphitheater, replica of Eagles nest, a wigwam and 2 ponds. We didn't get to see everything. Lots more to explore! Worth it to give $60 for yearly membership. We will definite come back!!!!! The only negative would be better trail markers. We had a map, but it was still confusing to figure out what trail we were on and where we were going. Wehr Nature Center does an excellent job of color coding their trails. read more